SEREMBAN: The nationwide crackdown on vehicles with heavily-tinted windscreens and windows is off.

The Road Transport Department has instead been told to review the existing regulations to make it suit local weather, said Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat.

"The crackdown is off. We are holding back because we want to review existing regulations. I'm prepared to do away with this ruling, but I need the feedback and co-ordination of the police first.

"The issue is being studied now and we will make a final decision following the feedback we receive from the police and RTD," he said.

It was earlier reported that the crackdown was to start on July 1 with owners of heavily-tinted vehicles to be slapped with a RM200 fine.

RTD enforcement director Salim Parlan had said that those who were allowed to drive vehicles with heavily-tinted glass would have to show proof they had permission to do so.

"For instance, a billionaire or a person suffering from a skin disease can apply for an exemption from the transport minister," Salim had said.

Under current regulations, owners of tinted vehicles needed to show proof, such as a police report, if their life was under threat or a doctor's letter if they were suffering from a skin disease.

Under the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Certain Types of Glass) Rules 1991, the chief judge and top-ranking police and army officers were allowed to have tinted vehicles.

Ong yesterday said there was no reason why tinting should not be allowed and restricted only to a privileged few.

"I don't see the need for anyone wanting to tint their cars to be politically connected. We are part of the international community and our regulations must reflect this," Ong said.

"I have asked my director-general to look into all procedures and implications, including the entry of heavily-tinted foreign cars into our country. We will make an announcement when things have been finalised," he said.

On the use of rear seat belts, he said all manufacturers would have to provide for this.

"Rear seat belts are part of specifications and we have told car manufacturers that it is compulsory for them to be included.